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Better Than Takeout Drunken Noodles: A Homemade Delight

If you’re a fan of Thai cuisine, you’ve likely encountered the tantalising dish known as drunken noodles, or "Pad Kee Mao". This flavourful stir-fried noodle dish, typically made with wide rice noodles, fresh vegetables, and a choice of protein, is often renowned for its playful medley of flavours and its slightly spicy kick. While takeout options may be convenient, there’s something truly special about mastering this dish in your own kitchen. Here, we’ll explore how to create better-than-takeout drunken noodles that not only rival your favourite Thai restaurant but also allow you to tailor the flavours to your own liking.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To prepare a standout drunken noodle dish, gather the following ingredients:

• Wide Rice Noodles: 250g (fresh or dried)
• Protein of Your Choice: Chicken, beef, shrimp, tofu, or a mix
• Vegetables: Bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and snap peas are great options
• Aromatics: 4 cloves of garlic, minced; 2-3 Thai bird’s eye chillies (or to taste)
• Sauce: 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce, 1 tablespoon fish sauce, 1 tablespoon sugar
• Herbs: Fresh basil leaves (Thai basil if available), coriander
• Optional Enhancements: Lime wedges, crushed peanuts, or sesame oil for finishing

Cooking Method

1. Prepare Your Noodles: If you’re using dried rice noodles, soak them in hot water until they soften but aren’t fully cooked—about 20-30 minutes. Drain and set aside. If you’re using fresh noodles, simply separate them and set aside.

2. Make the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. This mixture will be the flavour backbone of your dish.

3. Cook Your Protein: Heat a large wok or non-stick frying pan over high heat. Add a splash of vegetable oil, then toss in your chosen protein, cooking until it’s browned and nearly done. Remove it from the pan and set aside.

4. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pan, add more oil if necessary and toss in the minced garlic and bird’s eye chillies. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant—be careful not to burn the garlic.

5. Add Vegetables: Next, add your chopped vegetables to the pan. Stir-fry them for a few minutes until they’re tender but still crisp. Remember to maintain that high heat for a quick, effective cooking process.

6. Combine Everything: Add the softened noodles back into the pan along with the cooked protein. Pour in your prepared sauce, tossing everything together until well combined. Cook for another minute or so to let all the ingredients heat through and absorb the flavours.

7. Finish with Fresh Herbs: Once everything is beautifully mixed, remove it from the heat and add in a generous handful of fresh basil. The residual heat will help release the aromatic oils of the basil, adding depth to your dish.

8. Serve and Garnish: Dish up your homemade drunken noodles and serve hot. Garnish with lime wedges, fresh coriander, or crushed peanuts to add a crunchy texture and an extra burst of flavour.

Why Make Drunken Noodles at Home?

While takeout is undeniably convenient, the homemade version of drunken noodles beats it in a variety of ways. First, you have complete control over the ingredients, allowing you to customise the spice level and adjust the quantities of sauces according to your preference. Additionally, preparing your own meals is often healthier, as you can opt for fresh produce and high-quality oils without added preservatives or excess sodium.

Moreover, the satisfaction derived from whipping up this delightful dish in your own kitchen is unparalleled. The aroma of sizzling garlic and fresh basil filling your home is a sensory experience you won’t get with takeaway.

Conclusion

Next time you find yourself craving drunken noodles, consider stepping into your kitchen to create a dish that’s not only better than takeout but also catered to your unique taste. With minimal ingredients and a straightforward method, you’ll be impressing family and friends in no time. So put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to fall in love with this easy and delectable Thai dish. Happy cooking!

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